A Mild, Clean, and Simple Synthesis of Symmetrical Carboxylic Anhydrides from Carboxylic Acides Using a Polymer Supported Tosyl Chloride

The use of polymeric reagents simplifies routine acylation of carboxylic acid because it eliminates the traditional purification. We describe the use of readily available cross-linked poly(4-vinylpyridine) supported tosyl chloride, [P4VP].TsCl, in the suspended solution phase synthesis of symmetrical anhydrides from carboxylic acids in the presence of K2CO3 in high yields and purity. The products can be obtained by filtration and evaporation of the solvent.